Journals of the Continental Congress

Second Continental Congress: January 6, 1776

January 6, 1776

Congressional Committees continue their daily work. William Hooper declares that “I am weary of politics, it is a study that corrupts the human heart, degrades the Idea of human nature, and drives men to expedients that morality must condemn.”

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Journals of the Continental Congress [Edited]

“Resolved, That the Secret Committee be directed to get the powder addressed to Congress, brought to Philadelphia, and to purchase, for the use of the United Colonies, the other quantities of powder.”

Resolved, that various letters received “be referred to the committee of Correspondence.”

Congress resolved that a memorial from the inhabitants of Newport be referred to the consideration of the general Assembly of the colony of Rhode Island.

The Committee, appointed to fit out armed vessels, allocated “prize-money” according to military rank of those involved in the capture of foreign ships.

The Report of the Committee on General Schuyler’s letters, &c. was postponed to Monday next.

A letter from General Schuyler, dated 30 December, enclosing copies of letters from General Montgomery and General Wooster, being received, were read.

Adjourned to Monday next at 10 o’Clock.

William Hooper to James Iredell

The day, I hope, is not at a great distance, when retired from the bustle of public life, I shall enjoy all the sweets of domestic retirement & private friendship. I am weary of politics, it is a study that corrupts the human heart, degrades the Idea of human nature, and drives men to expedients that morality must condemn. Deep stratagems, dark disguise, Fiction, falsehood, are but the fair side of the picture….

Edited with commentary by Gordon Lloyd.

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